A moving image traveled the world and became a symbol of humanity and closeness: a visibly moved nun approached Pope Francis’s coffin in a spontaneous gesture that moved millions.

It was Sister Geneviève Jeanningros, who, breaking with usual Vatican protocol, wanted to bid farewell in silence, holding a handkerchief and with tears in her eyes. Now, she has shared publicly for the first time what that moment meant to her.

Francis, whose birth name was Jorge Mario Bergoglio, passed away on April 21, at the age of 88, during the Easter celebrations. His legacy as a spiritual leader, marked by empathy, inclusion, and openness, left a lasting impression on people around the world, especially those who knew him closely, like Sister Geneviève.

The relationship between the two dates back to 2005, when the nun traveled to Buenos Aires to participate in a memorial service for her aunt, Leonie Duquet, who disappeared during the Argentine dictatorship. At that time, Bergoglio, as archbishop, authorized the symbolic act, thus beginning a close relationship that would last for years.

Since then, she became a regular figure in his entourage, sharing personal encounters and even bringing along representatives of communities she has actively advocated for.

One of the most significant moments occurred last year, when Pope Francis traveled to Ostia to visit her at her residence, in a gesture that reflected their mutual appreciation.